Bike and Barge
Athens and the Gulf of Aegina
- GR019 / Greece
- Bike and Barge Bike and barge In the daytime by bike, in the evening on board a hotel-boat that follows the cyclists along the route. Your luggage stays in the cabin and you can stay on the boat if you don't feel like cycling. Details
- Guided Guided Travel in a group with other participants and a tour leader who knows the route.
- By the sea By the sea Coastal itinerary or travel programme that leaves room for relaxation by the sea.
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Bronze
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Platinum
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Comfort and accommodation
Four levels of comfort to describe the different types of accommodation.
Find out more about comfort on this trip under comfort and departures.
- Apr, Jun, Jul, Aug, Oct
- 8 days
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- round tour from Athens
Highlights
A bike and boat vacation spanning 5,000 years of Greek history. Get ready for a leap in time: Venetians, Greeks, Romans, and more have left their traces in the Peloponnese. Discover medieval archaeological sites and be surprised by the uniqueness of the islands of the Saronic Gulf. Accompanied by orange groves, plantations, and the scent of aromatic herbs make a stop on the island of Hydra, where the only traffic you encounter is made up of...donkeys!
- The sanctuary of the goddess Aphaia, on the island of Aegina
- The volcanic peninsula of Methana
- The scents of the islands among pomegranates, orange groves, pistachios and spices
What awaits you
A week-long boat ride with daily e-bike rides. The stages on the pedals take place in hilly or mountainous terrain and involve reaching an altitude between 400/700 m above sea level. Roads are generally paved and low traffic, except in the high season. Each day you can decide whether to ride independently, using the maps provided, follow one of the guides, or stay on board and relax.
Accommodation
Overnight accommodations are provided aboard a three-masted motor yacht-a veritable floating hotel ready to follow you during the biking stages and welcome you aboard in the evening. The atmosphere is comfortable and designed down to the smallest detail to provide you with an unforgettable stay. The cuisine on board is varied, rich in Greek gastronomic specialties.
1. Arrive in Athens and board the sailing ship
Individual arrival at Marina Alimos, in the Athens suburb of Palaia Faliro. Embarkation is scheduled from 2:00 PM. The captain and crew welcome you to begin your adventure on the beautiful sailing ship, which will host you throughout the tour.
2. On the pedals to discover Poros, the island of Poseidon
Begin the day with a stretch of sailing to Poros, considered in antiquity to be the island of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. Before reaching the harbor, you will have a chance to take a relaxing swim. Arriving in the island’s capital of the same name, get on your bike and pedal along the entire length of the island, toward Russian Bay, a bay with turquoise waters. End the day in the bustling port of Poros, where the clock tower soars.
3. Ferry to Peloponnese, then bike and sail to Porto Heli
After breakfast a small ferry takes you to the small town of Galatas, in the eastern part of the Peloponnese peninsula. From here, start your bike ride along the coast and through the green Greek countryside reach the small seaside town of Ermioni, where the sailing ship awaits. Board the ship to reach Porto Heli during the afternoon. If the weather permits, it will be possible to enjoy a swim before docking at the port. Overnight stay in Porto Heli.
4. From Porto Heli to the island of Spetses
During the morning sail to Spetses and along the way enjoy a rejuvenating swim in a picturesque bay. Before lunch on board, you can explore the historic town center of Spetses. The Venetians originated the name of the island, calling it “island of spices.” Indeed, the aroma of these spices will accompany you during the afternoon ride, which takes you along scenic roads that follow the island’s coastline. Stop at one of the spectacular beaches in the area for a long swim or coffee break and then return by boat, moored at the old port of Spetses.
5. Hydra island and the Methana peninsula.
In the morning reach the Hydra island. Since ancient times, donkeys have always been the only means of transportation on this unique island, which experienced a heyday during the Middle Ages thanks to sea trade. After the Greek War of Independence, the island experienced a period of decline that lasted for hundreds of years. However, in 1957 it became the set of the film “The Boy on the Dolphin” starring Sophia Loren, which breathed new life into the island by attracting many artists. After exploring the port of Hydra, ride to the volcanic Methana Peninsula: it has more than 30 volcanoes, some of which are still active, as well as many hot springs. Late afternoon all riding for a scenic ride and coffee break at the picturesque harbor of Vathy. The overnight stay is in Methana.
6. The island of Aegina and its old town
After breakfast, cycle around the Methana peninsula before setting sail for the island of Aegina in the afternoon. Aegina is known for its excellent pistachios, which you can taste in the many products available for purchase in the typical stores in the center of the old town. You can stroll around the old town, or hop on your bike for a ride along the coast to Perdika, a picturesque fishing village (+20 km). Overnight stay in the town of Aegina for the night.
7. Return to Athens
Today’s bike tour takes you to the shrine of the goddess Aphaia, whose beautifully preserved towers rise above the azure sea. Drive through the center of the island, passing the large monastery of St. Nektarios, and then reach the town of Aegina. Here the sailing ship is waiting to take you back to Marina Alimos, where you spend your last night.
8. Athens: disembarkation and end of tour
After breakfast, disembarkation is planned. If you have some time left before saying goodbye to Athens, take the opportunity to visit the wonderful Acropolis.
- bathroom and shower en suite
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- 17 guests, 6 cabins
Erato
- bathroom and shower en suite
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- 17 guests, 6 cabins
Erato is a beautiful burgundy-colored yacht, named after the muse of choral singing and love poetry, that sails through the Greek seas. The yacht explores the Cycladic and Saronic islands, offering a luxurious experience to its guests. The cabins are panelled with fine wood giving them a cozy atmosphere. The yacht features an elegant salon with a well-stocked bar, where guests can gather and enjoy delicious traditional Greek cuisine prepared by the galley kitchen. Moreover, there is an outdoor area with comfortable seating, which is perfect for relaxing moments. View more details
Cabins
- 1 cabin with a double bed
- 5 cabins with a double and a single bed
All cabins measure 10-12 sq. meters and have private bathrooms, air conditioning, and hairdryer.
Common areas
- elegant restaurant
- sundeck with lounge chairs and comfortable benches
Only cash payments are accepted on board.
2025
Departures on Friday
go to online quote
- comfort Platinum
- bathroom and shower en suite
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- 18 guests, 9 cabins
Thalassa
- comfort Platinum
- bathroom and shower en suite
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- 18 guests, 9 cabins
Thalassa is a three-masted motor yacht built in 2002 as a traditional Turkish caique. A ship with the best equipment, combining elegance with great comfort.
The lounge and guest cabins are spacious. The wide deck provides comfortable seating.
The onboard kitchen offers a wide variety of authentic dishes that will introduce you to traditional Greek cuisine. View more details
Cabins
- 9 cabins with French bed (200 x 140 cm) or two single beds
Cabins measure 9-12 sq. meters and have private bathroom, air conditioning and hair dryer. We provide daily cabin cleaning and mid-week towel change or upon request.
Common areas
- outdoor deck with two large tables and chairs
- wooden furnished restaurant room
Only cash payments are accepted on board.
2025
Departures on Friday
go to online quote
Accommodation
- 7 nights accommodation
- Sheets and towels
Meals
- 7 breakfasts
- 2 days full board, 5 days half board (drinks excluded)
- Drinking water on board
If you are vegetarian, gluten-intolerant or allergic to some specific ingredients/substances please indicate it at the moment of booking. A supplement applies for gluten-free, lactose-free or vegan diets.
Once on board, make sure that the kitchen staff is aware of your allergies, in order to avoid unpleasant situations.
Tour leader
- English speaking tour leader within an international group
Participants come from all over the world, and the common language is English.
Tour information
Before departure you will receive by email:
- the link to download the tour information material
Assistance
In the Final Tour Details you will find the contact phone numbers you can call during the tour in case of emergency.
Additional services included
- Group visits to museums and archaeological sites
Cancellation policy
In the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occurring at the place of destination or in its immediate surrounding area and having a substantial impact on the execution of the package or on the transport of travellers towards the destination, the traveller has the right to withdraw from the agreement before using the package, without paying withdrawal costs.
In all the other cases of withdrawal from the travel agreement, the traveller is always required to pay a withdrawal penalty. Read more
Withdrawal penalties
- 20% up to 84 days prior to departure date
- 40% from 83 to 42 days prior to departure date
- 60% from 41 to 28 days prior to departure date
- 90% from 27 to 1 day prior to departure date
- 100% no-show
Round trip
Travel to and from start and finish points not included
To pay on the spot
- Meals not mentioned in the section “price includes”
- Drinks on board
- Entrance fee for sights not included in the tour price
- Tips
The amount is up to your discretion, we suggest 5-7 % of the cost of the trip.
Rental bikes and accessories
You can rent bikes and accessories from our local partner.
The helmet is mandatory, we recommend bringing your own.
Additional excluded services
- Accommodation in single cabin/room
- Special diet supplement €70 (to be paid on board)
- Transfer
It is possible to book a transfer from Athens (airport or hotel) to the embarkation point and vice versa (available on embarkation and disembarkation days only) - Bike insurance
It is possible to add an insurance against theft and damage of the rental bike (negligence damage excluded): € 30 electric bike - Everything not mentioned in the section “included”
The bike you rented will be waiting for you on board: serviced, adjusted to your height and ready for your tour.
Unisex E-bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Unisex E-bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- front/rear lights
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier
- battery charger
- lock
Side bag
- waterproof
- to be attached to the roof rack
- Ideal for carrying useful items for the daily stage
Side bag
- waterproof
- to be attached to the roof rack
- Ideal for carrying useful items for the daily stage
Route profile
- Level: medium
- Total length: 185 km
- Maximum altitude: 500 m
- Terrain: paved and low traffic roads
The tours and the elevation meters are very manageable with an e-bike (23-40 km and 400-700 meters of elevation per day). The roads are mostly asphalted. Your tour guide will inform you each day about the tour details. This tour is primarily a guided group tour however, upon consultation with your tour guides, it may be possible to cycle on your own along recommended, suitable routes. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend on board the boat, instead of taking a planned cycle tour.
Embarkation
Embarkation is scheduled from 2 PM at Marina Alimos, in the Athens suburb of Palaia Faliro. Here you will meet the tour leader and other participants.
How to get there
The port of Marina Alimos, a marina in the Athens suburb of Palaia Faliro, is the starting point of the tour to be reached independently.
Before departure we will send you the exact boarding point.
By plane
The closest airport is Athens International Airport (ATH):
From Athens airport (ATH):
- bus (e.g. X96 line) until Edem and then walk to Marina Alimos port
For an overview of prices, airlines and flight schedules we suggest rome2rio.com or Google Maps, which also show options via train or bus, even for the last mile. For reliability and security, we recommend purchasing your flight on the official website of your chosen airline.
By train
For information on timetables and prices you can consult Hellenic Trains official website.
Documents
If you are a citizen of the EU or of a Schengen country – i.e. most EU countries and four European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland – you are free to travel to other Schengen countries without having to go through border controls.
Even if you don’t need a passport for border checks within the Schengen area, it is still always highly recommended to take a passport or ID card with you.
If you are a non-EU national wishing to visit or travel within the EU, you will need a passport:
- valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU country you are visiting,
- which was issued within the previous 10 years
- and possibly a visa
You should apply for a visa from the consulate or embassy of the country you are visiting. If your visa is from a Schengen area country, it automatically allows you to travel to the other Schengen countries as well.
Do not forget your travel, health and/or car insurance documents.
For further information visit Your Europe official website.
Do not forget your travel, health and/or car insurance documents.
Always thoroughly check the document you travel with: expiration date and integrity.
Registration of documents is compulsory at check-in in hotels.
Language and time zone
The official language is Greek. English is not spoken in all businesses and public offices.
Internet, telephone, electricity
Internet and telephone
With a European SIM card, roaming services are free throughout Europe. Please check your rates with your mobile/internet provider before departure.
Electricity
The Greek electrical net is 220 volts – 50 Hz. F-type power sockets.
Type C, D, E, and H sockets are found in older installations.
We recommend to always carry a universal adapter for electronic devices.
Currency
The currency in Greece is the euro (€).
Equipment and clothing
Luggage
- Bags instead of suitcases (space on board is limited)
Personal equipment
- a reusable water bottle
- a holder to fix for your mobile phone on the handlebar
- a power bank
- basic first aid kit which includes sticky bandages, gauze and low grade disinfectant
- sun glasses for eye protection
- protective sun lotion
- insect repellent
Clothes
- padded cycling shorts
- comfortable shoes with stiff soles
- light weight waterproof/windproof tops
- leggings and long sleeved tops for cooler mornings or evenings
- small close-fitting rucksack to carry small items during the day while cycling
- swimsuit
- clothes to cover your shoulders when you visit churches
Sustainable traveler
Per viaggiare nel rispetto dell’ambiente, dei luoghi e delle persone che ci accolgono:
- informati sugli usi e i costumi del Paese che stai visitando
- fai attenzione ai gesti, che possono assumere significati diversi o offensivi
- chiedi sempre prima di fotografare le persone
- nei luoghi di culto indossa un abbigliamento adeguato
- non lasciare traccia del tuo passaggio, non abbandonare rifiuti
- non raccogliere “souvenir” da ambienti naturali protetti e siti archeologici
- cerca sempre di seguire i sentieri, non disturbare gli animali e non danneggiare le piante
- non sprecare acqua ed energia, risorse preziose per tutto il pianeta
- rispetta le regole stabilite dai proprietari delle strutture ricettive
Laura
Published: 18 Aug 2023
Paolo
Published: 24 Jul 2023
Sue Ellen
Published: 22 Jul 2021
This holiday was a dream come true for me. I could not have asked for a better crew to guide me – Kostas and Catherina were friendly, capable, knowledgable, thorough, and made all the incredibly hard work they did on our behalf seem easy. They handled unexpected challenges and “emergency” situations with grace and aplomb, making it seem as though these were commonplace events and nothing to stress over. Achilleas, Stavros and Photis were friendly, effective, and pleasant all the time. I feel like I left friends behind when I disembarked.
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